As the guide stopped to point out alligators, birds, and fauna, my daughter chatted it up with a nice gentleman who was likely in his 70’s. Not exactly the Spring Break that a single graduate student had in mind

The Kiwanis Club welcomes visitors from all over the world to Calle Ocho where visitors numbered 1-1.5 million. NBD. On the streets, there is music stages on every block, dancing, and conga lines, food, vendors, children's areas and more food.

I thought a mullet was all about “business in the front-party in the back.” But, it is a fish with no hair. Apparently, someone got an idea at a big ole beach party to throw a fish across state lines.

Flora-Bama State Line Sate of Mind!

I wonder how this idea was formed?

Party much?

Think this party is not a family friendly place?

Not my bra and “I’m a little bit older and a lot yet bolder than I used to be.” Flora-Bama actually does accommodate all ages during this event. It is a beach party after all. I was there to witness my nephews in this epic event.

Seriously, each year over $20,000 is raised and contributed to local charities, and especially the Youth Organizations. So, it is about the kids, well done folks. There are rules, like no gloves.

Three older women in line, I mean the over 70 set, chatted me up. Apparently, these chicks have been throwing dead fish for many years. They were missing their fourth friend this year. They shamed me into throwing.

Winner fish come to mama

Don’t worry, they are dead (the fish, not the 70 yr olds.) You put the slimy thing back into the bucket after you are finished. I wonder if those over 70 year olds ever slipped weights into their mouth to get a leg up? Anyway, they are fed to fish once their carcasses have been used up.

MEGathrow

This is now part of my legend. Yep, I chucked that that fish from Florida to Alabama. I got 17th place in my age bracket. Whatever.

Bonus*There was some pretty darn good food here.

How can it get any better?

YUM! MEGASTARS **** Although this bucket list did not culturally, enrich me, I am giving this shindig 4 stars. I am glad I went. I bonded with family and conquered. Met some inspiring women, ate some great food and enjoyed the beach. I got a T-shirt and wear it like a badge of honor. Not a bad day. MEGATIPS;

People come from all over the world for this shindig. Get your hotel rooms booked early. If you are not going to party, you can drive from Pensacola or Pensacola Beach.

Drive to a shuttle point. This year it was in Orange Beach. There is paid parking but it is really slim.

Great Low Country Boil on the grounds when I visited. A lot of other food is offered here. You may wait in line.

In this area? I also like Lulu’s for fun and food. See my Tuesday blog.

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Pensacola Beach, Fort Pickens National Park and a Margaritaville Visit.

I am lucky to live not too far from this area, and while I am a frequent visitor to Pensacola Beach, I wanted to check out Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Beach Hotel.

The beaches in this area are truly fantastic. In March and April, the water is a bit cooler but I happened to hit a warm week and swam in this beauty.

This photos above is from The Pier on Pensacola Beach. Margaritaville is that beauty in the background.

The color of the water is dreamy. This public beach, there are lifeguards. The sand is white and soft. Perfecto!

It is fun to watch people fish from a nearby beach and the pier. There are many geared-up fishing boats that pass the beach.

This Bob and Barbara

Margaritaville was really a great stay. I got a room by the ice machine, which was loud. Aside from that, it was near perfection. No detail is overlooked in this hotel.

Lobby, Gift Shop and restaurant called “Frank and Lola’s Lounge. ” A beautiful bar area that leads out to pool and Tiki Bar.

A warm welcome and rooms with a view! Quiet and beautiful beaches. Straight out the hotel door. Since I love my OWN beach, this area of Florida is quite megapproved. Next to Margaritaville, is the ever fun hangout called “The Landshark Lounge.” Live Music

Sunset from Landshark Lounge

Nearby, there is this….

However, in the other directions is Fort Pickens National Park. I LOVE this park. Great camping, biking, history, fishing, private beaches.

One of my favorite moments in Fort Pickens has to be watching the sunsets that are visible over the bay from atop the cannon wall.

I found this sign very funny in a 10 year old sort of way. Fun places to eat breakfast? Why not have breakfast “At The Weinery” ummm wiener? Hot Dog House.

MEGASTARS *****5

MEGATIPS

1. If you visit this area, watch The Blue Angels. I have seen them but did not take any photos. You can catch them from a viewing platform at The Naval Aviation Museum OR check them out from the peninsula at Fort Pickens. Bring a brunch. They are magnificent to watch.

2. Love nature, quiet beaches, history? Visit Fort Pickens

3. Rent or bring your bike. there are bike lanes, bike trails and safe places to bike around Fort Pickens.

4. Catch a sunset on top of the cannon wall at Fort Pickens

5. Stay at Margaritaville and check out the happenings at The Landshark Lounge.

6. Fun to eat on the beach at Flounders. The Shrimp boat is loaded with shrimp eats. They have this seafood nacho dish that serves a table full of people. Get a table out near the volleyball courts and bay.

7. Breakfast at Native Cafe

8. Fine Dining at The Grand Marlin. Try to get a table at the bayside. This restaurant has many “best of’s.”